In 1900, an American's average lifespan was 47. Today, it is 78.

Overview What is elder abuse? Signs of abuse Myths about elder abuse Rights of vulnerable adults Maintaining connections Current laws Legislative updates Laws by state Articles of interest COMMON FORMS OF ABUSE Many people mistakenly assume that only battered paople are abused. → More TAKE ACTION "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."             Dr. Margaret Mead Gary A. Jones When Gary Jones became sick with terminal cancer, his caregiver denied him visitation with his children. → More Click on a state to begin. The current laws in that state will be displayed below. Alaska Alaska law defines vulnerable adults to include adults 18 years of age or older, not just the elderly. The harm they suffer may result from abandonment, abuse, exploitation, neglect or self-neglect. Here's how these forms of abuse are defined in Alaska: Abandonment is the desertion of a vulnerable adult by a caregiver. Abuse is the intentional or reckless non-accidental, non-therapeutic infliction of pain, injury, mental distress or sexual assault. Exploitation is the unjust or improper use of another person or their resources for one's own benefit. Neglect is the intentional failure of a caregiver to provide essential services. Self-neglect is the act or omission by a vulnerable adult that results or could result in the deprivation of essential services necessary to maintain minimal mental, emotional or physical health and safety. Here are some links for reference on elder abuse in the state of Alaska: http://www.hss.state.ak.us/dsds/aps.htm http://touchngo.com/.../Chapter24/Section900.htm